Food Loss and Waste

Tim Hammerich

News Reporter

One of agriculture’s greatest challenges is more of an issue off the farm than on it. I’m talking about food waste. An estimated 30-40% of calories produced by our farmers and ranchers gets wasted. Jean Buzby is the food loss and waste liaison for the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Buzby… “It's a staggering amount of wasted food in the United States from farm to table. And that has far reaching impacts on food security, and resource conservation. Back in September 2015, USDA and EPA, announced the United States first ever food loss and waste reduction goal. Which calls for a 50% reduction by 2030. We developed the U.S. Food Loss and Waste 2030 Champions program. And these champions are stepping up to do their part to help the nation reach this critical goal. Since 2016, we've had over 31 businesses and corporations become 2030 champions. Producers, such as Kellogg's and General Mills. They include hotel companies like Hilton. They include even meal kit providers like Blue Apron. I think their leadership will help others understand the scope of the problem and what can be done.”

To learn more about this program, or to find out how you can apply to become a food loss and waste 2030 champion, visit the U.S. EPA website: https://www.epa.gov/sustainable-management-food/united-states-food-loss-and-waste-2030-champions.